The Federal Ministry of Education has clarified the inclusion of the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship in the 2026 national budget. According to the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, the current budget provision originates from the 2025 fiscal framework, which was approved prior to the suspension of new BEA scholarships between April and May 2025.

The 2026 budget is largely a roll-over of the previous year's framework, with existing lines carried forward and unable to be removed retroactively once approved. Dr. Alausa explained that the presence of the allocation is purely procedural and does not signal the resumption of new scholarship awards.

The Ministry noted that any changes to the BEA budget line must be handled through an approved virement to ensure alignment with current government policies and prudent resource management. The Federal Government offered reassurance to students currently abroad under the scheme, stating that all existing BEA beneficiaries will continue to receive full government support throughout their studies.

The public is urged to disregard misleading interpretations regarding the budget lines. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability in the management of national educational resources.